Key Points

• Home health aides assist with daily living and basic health support in home settings.
• To become an HHA in Oregon, one must complete a 75-hour state-approved training program and pass a competency evaluation.
• HHA training takes about 2–3 months including classroom and hands-on training.
• The average salary for home health aides in Oregon is $42,950 per year ($20.65/hour) according to BLS (May 2024).

What is a Home Health Aide

A Home Health Aide (HHA) is a trained professional who helps individuals maintain independence by providing in-home assistance with daily living and basic health-related tasks under the supervision of licensed medical professionals.

Common responsibilities include:

• Helping with bathing, grooming, dressing
• Monitoring vital signs
• Administering simple medications
• Preparing meals and assisting with feeding
• Performing light housekeeping
• Offering companionship and emotional support

Where Do Home Health Aides Work?

Home health aides in Oregon typically work in:

• Private residences
• Hospice care
• Assisted living facilities
• Home health agencies

They may also accompany patients to appointments or errands.

Requirements to Become a Home Health Aide in Oregon

To work as a certified HHA in Oregon, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED (recommended)
• Complete a 75-hour Oregon State Board of Nursing–approved training program
• Pass a competency evaluation (written and skills assessment)

Where to Find Home Health Aide Classes in Oregon

Use Dreambound to find and compare home health aide training programs near you.

Looking specifically in Portland? Start here: HHA classes in Portland, OR

Dreambound lets you:

• Filter by city, tuition cost, or program length
• Compare student reviews
• Request free info from schools directly

How to Get Home Health Aide Certification

If you're passionate about helping others and want to pursue a career as a home health aide, you'll need to follow a few key steps to get certified. This process involves understanding state requirements, completing necessary training, and demonstrating your skills through an evaluation. Here's what you have to do:

1. Research state requirements: Start by finding out the specific requirements for home health aides in your state. Each state has its own regulations, so make sure you understand what’s needed in your area, such as the type of training program and certification exams.

2. Complete a state-approved training program: Enroll in a training program that is recognized by your state. These programs typically cover essential topics like personal care, infection control, and basic medical procedures. In Oregon, for instance, you’ll need to finish a 75-hour program with both classroom and hands-on training.

3. Pass the competency evaluation: After completing your training, you’ll need to pass a competency evaluation, which includes a written exam and a practical skills demonstration. This step verifies that you have the knowledge and abilities required to provide quality care. Once you pass, you'll receive your certification and be ready to start your career as a home health aide.

How to Get a Job as a Home Health Aide

After obtaining your home health aide certification, the next step is finding a job in this rewarding field. To enhance your chances of landing a position, follow these steps to effectively showcase your skills and connect with potential employers. Here’s what you have to do:

1. Update your resume: Make sure your resume highlights your home health aide certification, any relevant training, and previous healthcare experience. Emphasize your skills in personal care, medication management, and meal preparation to make your resume stand out.

2. Leverage your network: Reach out to friends, family, and professional contacts who work in the healthcare industry. They might know of job openings or be able to refer you to employers looking for home health aides.

3. Apply online: Many healthcare agencies and home care companies list job openings on their websites or on job boards. Take the time to search for and apply to these positions, tailoring your application to each job.

4. Attend job fairs: Job fairs are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about the home health aide job market in your area. Dress professionally, bring copies of your resume, and be ready to discuss your qualifications and career goals.

5. Contact local home healthcare agencies: Reach out directly to home healthcare agencies in your area. Express your interest in working as a home health aide and inquire about any current or upcoming job openings. These agencies often need qualified caregivers and may offer on-the-job training.